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Lexapro |
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What is Lexapro and why is it prescribed? Lexapro is prescribed for major depression. Lexapro works by boosting levels of serotonin, one of the chief chemical messengers in the brain. Do not take Lexapro for 2 weeks before or after taking any drug classified as an MAO inhibitor. Drugs in this category include the antidepressants Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate. Combining these drugs with Lexapro can cause serious and even fatal reactions marked by such symptoms as fever, rigidity, twitching, and agitation leading to delirium and coma. How should you take Lexapro? Follow your doctors directions for taking Lexapro. Although improvement usually begins within 1 to 4 weeks, treatment typically continues for several months. Lexapro can be taken with or without food. If you miss a dose of Lexapro take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Store Lexapro at room temperature. Are there any Lexapro side effects? Lexapro side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Lexapro side effects may include constipation, decreased appetite, decreased sex drive, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, ejaculation disorder, fatigue, flu-like symptoms, impotence, indigestion, insomnia, nausea, runny nose, sinusitis, sleepiness, and sweating. Less common Lexapro side effects may include abdominal pain, abnormal dreaming, allergic reactions, blurred vision, bronchitis, chest pain, coughing, earache, fever, gas, heartburn, high blood pressure, hot flushes, increased appetite, irritability, joint pain, lack of concentration, lack of energy, lack of orgasm, light-headedness, menstrual cramps, migraine, muscle pain, nasal congestion, neck and shoulder pain, pain in arms or legs, palpitations, rash, ringing in the ears, sinus congestion, sinus headache, stomachache, tingling, toothache, tremors, urinary problems, vertigo, vomiting, weight changes, and yawning. A variety of very rare side effects have also been reported. Check with your doctor if you develop any new or unusual symptoms. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Lexapro? If Lexapro is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Do not use Lexapro if you are taking the related drug Celexa. Be sure to avoid MAO inhibitors when taking Lexapro. Although Lexapro does not interact with alcohol, the manufacturer recommends avoiding alcoholic beverages. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Lexapro with Carbamazepine (Tegretol), Cimetidine (Tagamet), Desipramine (Norpramin), Drugs that act on the brain (including antidepressants, painkillers, sedatives, and tranquilizers), Ketoconazole (Nizoral), Lithium (Eskalith), Metoprolol (Lopressor), Narcotic painkillers, or Sumatriptan (Imitrex). Are there any special warnings about Lexapro? Lexapro makes some people sleepy. Until you know how Lexapro affects you, use caution when driving a car or operating other hazardous machinery. In rare cases, Lexapro can trigger mania. If you've ever had this problem, be sure to let the doctor know. Also make sure that the doctor knows if you have liver problems or severe kidney disease. Your Lexapro dosage may need adjustment. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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